Trucks have large zones of limited visibility, known as blind spots. This makes it even more necessary for truck drivers to remain attentive on the road and double check their mirrors before changing lanes. When truckers are negligent, the large size and weight of their vehicles can cause severe damage in the event of a collision.
Blind spot truck accidents in Elgin often have severe consequences for those injured as a result. If you or a loved one experienced this type of traffic crash, speak with a knowledgeable attorney at the Law Offices of R.F. Wittmeyer, Ltd. to learn your options for recovering compensation.
The Four Blind Spots on a Commercial Truck
Blind spots are areas around a vehicle that the driver cannot easily see while behind the wheel. Semi trucks typically feature four distinct blind spots:
- The right side of the truck cab under the mirror
- The left side of the semi cab under the mirror
- The back of the trailer, extending 30 feet beyond the trailer
- The front of the cab, extending 20 feet forward
While commercial truck drivers are educated about blind spot areas during training, a moment of negligence or distracted driving could have catastrophic consequences. To be safe, cars should avoid driving in the blind zones of large trucks.
Common Blind Spot Truck Crash Scenarios in Elgin
Blind spot accidents often happen due to trucker negligence, such as aggressive or distracted driving. These collisions also frequently occur during lane changes or while merging onto highways. As such, truck drivers should regularly check their blind spots, especially when making any maneuvers.
Establishing Fault for a Blind Spot Truck Collisions
Besides a negligent truck driver, multiple parties could be liable for a blind spot collision. Insurance adjusters and police officers use various forms of evidence to establish blame. The attorneys at our Elgin office will also conduct our own investigation to determine who may be held accountable for a victim’s injuries after a blind spot crash. We may use the following forms of information to establish the facts of the case:
- Video from the truck’s camera
- Alcohol and drug screening results
- Truck maintenance and driver logs
- Accident records
- Eyewitness reports
- Cargo records
- Medical records
Modified Comparative Negligence for Truck Crashes
Illinois uses modified comparative negligence rules to establish fault in blind spot accidents. Modified comparative negligence means that an injured plaintiff could be found partially at fault for a truck collision. If the plaintiff contributed to their own injuries, they may see their damages award reduced to reflect their degree of fault.
If a plaintiff is found more than 50 percent to blame, they may be barred from collecting any compensation at all. A knowledgeable attorney could further explain these rules and help a truck accident victim contest any allegations of partial fault after a blind spot collision.
Consult an Attorney on Blind Spot Truck Accidents in Elgin
If you were recently involved in a blind spot truck accident in Elgin, speak with an attorney at our firm about your legal options. The lawyers at the Law Offices of R.F. Wittmeyer, Ltd. could investigate your case, determine liable parties, and help you pursue compensation for all your losses. Contact our dedicated legal team today to get started.